The race for the Republican nomination in the state's 9th congressional district remains too close to call.

With all precincts reporting, unofficial returns from Thursday's primary show Adam Chaprales of Barnstable leading Christopher Sheldon of Plymouth by fewer than 40 votes out of nearly 22,000 votes cast.

Chaprales told The Associated Press on Friday that his campaign is still awaiting the official numbers, but he is moving ahead as if he will be the Republican nominee to face U.S. Rep. William Keating, who won the Democratic primary.

In an email to supporters Friday, Sheldon said he'd work with city and town clerks to ensure the intent of voters was honored.

There is no provision in state law for an automatic recount, but either candidate could petition for one.